EastEnders enthusiasts are forecasting the comeback of a soap icon - much to the surprise of Stacey Slater.
Stacey Slater, portrayed by Lacey Turner, made her first appearance on the soap in 2004. Debuting at just 16, Lacey has since become one of the most adored stars of the show.
Throughout the years, Lacey has tackled some significant storylines as Stacey. From battling bipolar disorder to committing murder, Stacey's tenure in Walford has been anything but dull.
Moreover, it's safe to say that Stacey has had her fair share of romantic entanglements during her stint. She famously tied the knot with the much-loved Bradley Branning (Charlie Clements) in 2007, and who could forget her notorious affair with his father Max Branning (Jake Wood).
Max and Stacey wreaked absolute havoc when they embarked on a scandalous love affair that ultimately led to the death of his son and her husband Bradley, reports the Daily Star.
Walford's notorious womaniser Max hasn't been seen on the soap since February 2021 when his failed romance with baby mama Linda Carter (Kellie Bright) left him feeling he had nothing left in Albert Square. He then fled to Croatia with his granddaughter Abi Branning by his side.
Meanwhile, his daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) made a surprising return to the square at the start of the year. She came back home with cousin Penny (Kitty Castledine) at the beginning of the year.
EastEnders enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation, convinced that Max Branning is poised for a sensational return to Albert Square. On a fan forum dedicated to the soap, titled "EE - The next big return," viewers have been eagerly exchanging predictions.
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One fan speculated: "Personally I think Max is probably the character who would have a lot of storylines straight away: Unresolved feelings for Linda, Finding out Annie is his daughter, Reconnecting with Lauren, Sparring with Cindy over their shared grandchildren."
Another chimed in with a succinct endorsement: "Max most likely."
A third contributor suggested: "A Max return would be obvious and it seems the stage is certainly set for it to happen with Lauren back and the Jack/Stacey thing and Linda drinking herself into oblivion while in the care of his secret daughter."
During an episode of Isolation Interviews, Lacey Turner, who portrays Stacey Slater, reminisced about the iconic Max and Stacey plotline. She reflected: "At the time I don't think we knew it was going to be that massive, but people really invested in it and you know, people were you really following it."
Lacey continued, highlighting the enduring connection between the characters: "We had this bond between Max and Stacey. They will always have this bond simmering underneath."
Hinting at the possibility of rekindling the on-screen romance, she teased: "And you never know when it's going to rear its head. It was so clever."
